Refractory
hardrih-FRAK-tuh-ree
adjective
Definition
Stubborn or unmanageable; resistant to treatment
Examples
“The refractory patient refused to take medication.”
“Refractory materials can withstand extreme heat.”
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Refractory is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "intractable" or "recalcitrant" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "compliant".
Related GRE Words
mulish
Resembling or characteristic of a mule; stubborn
pigheaded
Stupidly obstinate
intransigent
Unwilling or refusing to change one's views or agree; uncompromising
recalcitrant
Having an obstinately uncooperative attitude
obdurate
Stubbornly refusing to change one's opinion or course of action
obstinate
Stubbornly refusing to change one's opinion or course of action
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